BANGKOK, THAILAND – The government is digging deep into its coffers: More than 20 million people will receive an extra 1,000 Baht per month starting in June, as energy prices surge and threaten household finances.
20 million receive 4,000 Baht
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekkanit Nititannapraphat has greenlit the so-called “50:50-Plus” program. Registration opens in May, with the first payments flowing in June.
Each eligible person gets 1,000 Baht per month for four months – a total of 4,000 Baht. The state covers 60 percent of the cost, while citizens pay 40 percent. This applies to both taxpayers and non-taxpayers equally.
14 million poorest also get money
In parallel, holders of the state social card – nearly 14 million people – will receive 4,000 Baht, also spread over four months. However, they pay the full price at checkout; the subsidy comes as a pure cash benefit.
Both programs operate under the umbrella “Thai hilft Thai Plus”. It is the most extensive aid package the government has ever launched.
Funding still open – law planned
Government circles say the money is ready, but one hurdle remains. By April 30, the Finance Ministry must assess how much of the 2026 budget is still uncommitted.
A special law will then be enacted to redirect those unused funds into the relief program. The timeline is ambitious: clarity by the end of April, followed immediately by a draft bill.
Premier: “Worst energy crisis in decades”
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul justified the massive intervention. The population is suffering greatly from high energy prices. Economic recovery will take a long time.
“This program is the most generous ever – both in the number of recipients and the amount of payments. Never before has so much money flowed to so many people.”
Help for millions – but is it enough?
A total of 34 million people will receive extra money – sounding like a wave of solidarity. Yet the question remains: will it stop rising prices at the checkout? Or is it just a drop in the ocean?
What do you think: are 1,000 Baht per month enough to weather the energy crisis, or must the state do more? Share your opinion – discuss with us in the comments.